Which statement about protective isolation is accurate?

• A. Fresh flowers are allowed in the room.
• B. Visitors must wash hands before entering.
• C. Flowers are not allowed in the room.
• D. The patient should be able to receive unregulated visitors.

Answer: (C)

Protective isolation aims to shield an immunocompromised patient from infections by limiting exposure to potential pathogens in the environment. Fresh flowers and their soil can harbor bacteria, fungi, and mold spores, so they’re prohibited to reduce infection risk. While hand hygiene by visitors is an important safety measure in these settings, the statement about flowers being not allowed directly reflects a specific precaution tied to protecting the vulnerable patient. Therefore, restricting flowers in the room is the most accurate guideline.